Beef and vegetable bolognaise
This Beef and Vegetable Bolognaise is a hearty Italian dish that features ground beef simmered with a mix of colourful vegetables and rich canned tomatoes. Served over pasta, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
2 tsp olive oil12 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 carrot
1 large zucchini
1 stalk celery
8 oz broccoli
2 cans canned tomatoes
1 can canned lentils
16 oz pasta
This Beef and Vegetable Bolognaise is a hearty and nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish. By incorporating a variety of vegetables, it's not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines lean ground beef with a medley of colorful vegetables, infused with the rich taste of tomatoes. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
Instructions:
- Dice the onion finely.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Peel and finely chop the carrot.
- Cut the zucchini into small cubes.
- Chop the celery fine.
- Cut the broccoli into small florets.
- Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the carrot, zucchini, celery, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in the 2 cans of canned tomatoes and stir well to combine.
- Drain and rinse the lentils, and then add them to the pan.
- Stir everything together, making sure all the vegetables and beef are evenly mixed with the tomatoes and lentils.
- Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are fully cooked. Stir occasionally.
- While the bolognese is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the 16 oz pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Taste the bolognese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Beef and Vegetable Bolognaise, a perfect combination of flavors and textures. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills you up with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Beef and vegetable bolognaise FAQ:
The ground beef should be browned and no longer pink in the center. A food thermometer can be used; it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
You can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. The pasta shape should hold onto the sauce well for the best texture.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Cooking Tips:
- Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to save time and ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Opt for leaner ground beef if you prefer a lower-fat version of this dish.
- Dice the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and blend well with the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the mixture to simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
- Add herbs such as basil, oregano, or bay leaves to enhance the flavors of your bolognaise.
- For added richness, you can stir in a splash of red wine while cooking the beef.
- Make sure to season at different stages of cooking to layer the flavors effectively.
- Feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free pasta based on your dietary preferences.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 850kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 120g
Fiber 20g
Sugar 16g
Fat 22g
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